Gamekeeper’s Thumb

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Definition/Description

Gamekeeper's thumb, also known as Skier's thumb, is an injury that affects the Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb. The UCL is a band of tissue that connects the thumb to the hand and helps to stabilize the thumb joint. The injury occurs when the thumb is bent backward or sideways, causing the UCL to stretch or tear.

The term "gamekeeper's thumb" first originated from Scottish gamekeepers, who frequently experienced this injury due to their work involving repetitive use of their hands. Over time, the term became commonly used to describe injuries to the UCL of the thumb. Sometimes gamekeeper's thumb is called as Skier's thumb because it is most commonly caused by a fall on an outstretched hand, such as when skiing or snowboarding, but there are some key differences between the both conditions.

Etiology

Gamekeeper's thumb can be caused by various activities that involve forceful or repetitive thumb movements, such as skiing, playing sports, or using tools. The injury can also occur from a single traumatic event, such as a fall or a blow to the thumb. The severity of the injury depends on how much the UCL is damaged and whether it is partially or completely torn.

Go to the above link to find a full explanation of this condition and all relevant information. The short video below shows an overview of the condition

Difference between gamekeepers thumb and Skier's thumb

Feature	Gamekeeper's Thumb	Skier's thumb
Cause	Chronic non-traumatic overuse injury (stress and repetitive trauma) that gradually injures the ulnar collateral ligament	Acute injury due to trauma, from hyperabduction of the thumb as it is caught by the ski pole strap
Type of injury	Chronic overuse injury	Acute injury
Commonly Affected Area	Ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb	Ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb
Mechanism of injury	Repetitive stress or trauma to the thumb over time	Sudden forceful abduction of the thumb
Ligament affected	Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)	Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)
Symptoms	Pain, swelling, weakness, instability of the thumb, and ifficulty gripping or pinching objects	Pain, swelling, weakness, instability of the thumb, and ifficulty gripping or pinching objects
Sports associated	Fighting, soccer, and skiing	Skiing
Commonly Affected Population	Athletes who use their hands frequently, such as gamekeepers, rock climbers, and skiers	Skiers, snowboarders, and other winter sports enthusiasts
Other names	Break-dancer's thumb	Some time it is called as Gamekeeper's Thumb